British Tomahawk-armed submarine moves closer to Iran, media reveal details
Photo: British submarine arrives in the Arabian Sea (Getty Images)
A nuclear-powered submarine of the UK’s Royal Navy armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles has arrived in the Arabian Sea, according to the Daily Mail.
According to the outlet’s sources, the submarine HMS Anson left port in Perth on March 6 and has already taken up position in the northern Arabian Sea.
As sources noted, the British military now has the capability to strike Iran in case of further escalation.
“Anson will remain quietly hidden. The prime minister and the commander of naval operations will be informed of her location, and of course, the Submarine Service, but her position will not be widely known,” a source said.
The source added that the Navy can quickly deploy the submarine to positions where it can remain for weeks.
At the same time, the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on HMS Anson’s location, stating it does not disclose details of current operations and deployments.
According to media reports, HMS Anson surfaces daily to establish communication with the command at the PJHQ headquarters in Northwood, London. In the event of a strike decision, the order to open fire could be given by the head of joint operations, subject to the prime minister's approval.
This comes after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer allowed the United States to use British bases for strikes on Iranian targets, including to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
What is known about HMS Anson
The submarine is armed with Tomahawk Block IV missiles with a range of up to 1,000 miles and heavy Spearfish torpedoes.
It is designed for a crew of 98 and can operate autonomously at sea for up to three months. Its nuclear reactor does not require refueling for 25 years.
Earlier, Keir Starmer confirmed that the US had requested permission to use British military bases for strikes on Iran. London agreed, taking into account Tehran’s actions.
Meanwhile, amid rising tensions, the US is urgently deploying thousands of troops to the Middle East, with some units being sent ahead of schedule.
